it's a negotiating tactic that president obama always keeps in his tool kit, head to a backyard or living room, sit down with families who say his approach offers economic relief and send a loud message to congress with a personal touch. >> for them to be burdened unnecessarily because democrats and republicans aren't coming together to solve this problem gives you a sense of the costs involved in very personal terms. >> reporter: this time the scene played out in falls church, virginia, at the home of high school teacher tiffany santana and her husband richard who works at a local toyota dealership. also at the table, tiffany's parents who live with them. >> it ain't every day that your president comes into your home. >> reporter: this family's political tattoo is still staked in the front yard. >> i'm concerned. >> reporter: cnn sat down with the santanas after the presidential motorcade road away down james street just nine miles from the white house. because their parents are also middle income wage earners, the entire household would see a $4,000 tax increase if an agreement isn't re